It’s called ambiance for a reason. The ambient glow of a thoughtfully lit restaurant can transform any meal into an occasion.

From the dispersal of low light in a romantic dining room to the high-velocity illumination of an all-day café to the laid-back bounce of beams in a bistro, lighting provides an element of stagecraft that extends to the home, as well, and supports the same illusion—that we are our best, brightest, and most charming selves when gathered around the table. 

Lately, we’ve been exploring some of these hospitality-driven spaces and environments and the ways that they have inspired us. Cafés certainly rank at the top of that list, requiring lighting with an enduring brightness and sense of presence—the better to sustain the up tempo pace of service—but with an inherently casual design that enhances the convivial vibe of a bustling dining area. Below are 7 lights that strike that balance and bring a bit of café flavor to the table.